TOPIC - Christ-like Mission » Ministry Categories
Human Trafficking
Subscribe to receive email updates!
Confronting Slavery in Our Time
Today millions of men, women and children are struggling to rise out of poverty and improve their lives. Out of desperation, many of them become vulnerable to deception and false promises of a better life and find themselves in abusive employment situations. Transported (“trafficked”) away from their homes, they are forced to work in factories, restaurants, domestic situations, construction, agriculture, or the sex trade for little or no pay. International Ministries (IM) sends experienced missionaries and global consultants to work with Christian partners around the world in cutting edge programs to help people who have been trafficked. They work through Christian partner organizations and alongside community leaders, churches and governments to help change lives. The U.S. government and world organizations like UNESCO and UNICEF often look to IM missionaries and partners for leadership and consultation as they develop programs to address this global problem.
To order a printed newsletter on this topic please call Judson Press at
1-800-4JUDSON and ask for Tammy Tull at ext. 2038.
Today millions of men, women and children are struggling to rise out of poverty and improve their lives. Out of desperation, many of them become vulnerable to deception and false promises of a better life and find themselves in abusive employment situations. Transported (“trafficked”) away from their homes, they are forced to work in factories, restaurants, domestic situations, construction, agriculture, or the sex trade for little or no pay. International Ministries (IM) sends experienced missionaries and global consultants to work with Christian partners around the world in cutting edge programs to help people who have been trafficked. They work through Christian partner organizations and alongside community leaders, churches and governments to help change lives. The U.S. government and world organizations like UNESCO and UNICEF often look to IM missionaries and partners for leadership and consultation as they develop programs to address this global problem.
To order a printed newsletter on this topic please call Judson Press at
1-800-4JUDSON and ask for Tammy Tull at ext. 2038.

-
Journal
From Problems to People
by Jim KelseySeveral weeks ago I went out as the driver with a group of American women who had come to do a women’s seminar for our African churches. The mi... more -
Journal
by Karen Smith
Here are some pictures of the Super Junior M and US Ambassador's recent visit...! Karen -
Journal
US Ambassador to Thailand, Super Junior M and MTV Exit Campaign
by Karen SmithJuly, 2011 Dear Friends, The past few months have been filled with some extra special activities that have just been exhilarating for me, the staff, a... more -
Journal
Remarkable Reunion!
by Lauran BethellJuly, 2011 The last time I had seen NaBo was on her wedding day in Chiang Mai, Thailand more than 10 years ago. At that time, I was none to... more -
Journal
Summer and Spaghetti
by Debbie KelseyItalians know how to take it easy. We still marvel at their closing the stores for 3 hours every afternoon. “Don’t they know they cou... more
PEOPLE
Lori and Matt Mann |
Lauran Bethell |
Annie and Jeff Dieselberg |
Debbie and Jim Kelsey |
Terry and Tom Myers |
Kit Ripley |
| Karen Smith |
PROJECTS
Miqlat Ministry Women's Shelter in India
This project seeks to raise $14,300 by 2015 to purchase land suitable for a permanent home for the Miqlat Ministry in Dimapur, part of the Nagaland Baptist Council of Churches in India, an IM partner.
Deborah's House Sewing Machine Project- FUNDED
This project seeks to raise $22,000 in the next year to purchase industrial sewing machines, fabric, and secure use of the building.
Building Hope Center – Bulgaria
This project seeks to raise $150,000 to complete the interior of the Hope Center, a social outreach and training center operated by the Sofia Baptist Church in Bulgaria.
NightLight Outreach Center in Thailand
This project seeks to raise at total of $21,675 to allow NightLight to renovate, furnish and equip an Outreach Center in the red-light district of Nana, Bangkok in Thailand.
OPPORTUNITIES
-
August 20, 2008 - Opportunity
Business Manager, I.T. and Sales/Marketing in Thailand
Volunteers committed to ministry, excellence, and who understand business as mission are needed in Bangkok, Thailand to serve with NightL... more
-
August 22, 2011 - Journal
From Problems to People
by Jim Kelsey
Several weeks ago I went out as the driver with a group of American women who had come to do a women’s seminar for our African churches. The mi... more -
July 27, 2011 - Journal
by Karen Smith
Here are some pictures of the Super Junior M and US Ambassador's recent visit...! Karen -
July 27, 2011 - Journal
US Ambassador to Thailand, Super Junior M and MTV Exit Campaign
by Karen Smith
July, 2011 Dear Friends, The past few months have been filled with some extra special activities that have just been exhilarating for me, the staff, a... more -
July 27, 2011 - Journal
Remarkable Reunion!
by Lauran Bethell
July, 2011 The last time I had seen NaBo was on her wedding day in Chiang Mai, Thailand more than 10 years ago. At that time, I was none to... more -
June 28, 2011 - Journal
Summer and Spaghetti
by Debbie Kelsey
Italians know how to take it easy. We still marvel at their closing the stores for 3 hours every afternoon. “Don’t they know they cou... more -
June 12, 2011 - Journal
A Taste of Heaven!
by Lauran Bethell
I wish you’d all been there: people from more than 40 countries, all committed to Christ’s call to ministry in the darkest places in ... more -
June 06, 2011 - Journal
Attendees at Global Conference on Prostitution Experience "Joy Coming and Peace Going"
by Debbie Kelsey
We left our homes in 40 countries in joyous anticipation. We did our share of bursting into song and clapping our hands. And, now, we have ... more -
May 23, 2011 - Journal
Standing on the Threshold of Joy!
by Debbie Kelsey
We are on the threshold of Joy—Yes, “Joy” with a capital “J”! It is the May 22-27 global conference of the International Christian Alli... more -
May 19, 2011 - Journal
Outreach and Education
by Terry Myers
N. is married and started working on the streets of Sofia a few months ago to get enough money for her son to have the surgery he needs. She ... more -
May 17, 2011 - Journal
Death Threat
by Annie Dieselberg
"Everybody not angry police; everybody angry you! You do this, maybe next time someone kill you.” The Uzbek woman’s angry eyes avoided mine but the... more
-
April 26, 2011 - Journal
Off the Beaches but not Finished
by Jim Kelsey, Debbie Kelsey
Children with shrapnel through their cheeks…Young men missing limbs…Mothers with babies fleeing rockets: these are the images from North Afri... more -
March 31, 2011 - Journal
It Only Takes a Little to Make a Big Difference
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear Friends,It doesn’t take much to break the back of the poor. “Biya” came in holding her broken arm carefully. In tears she confessed that she... more -
March 10, 2011 - Journal
When Africa Sneezes-Italy Catches a Cold
by Jim Kelsey
It is often said “America sneezes and the world catches a cold” to stress the growing interconnectedness of the international community and the pre... more -
March 09, 2011 - Journal
Yes, I’m Ready
by Kit Ripley
It was a grey, overcast day last December. We had gathered all 90 New Life Center residents, 40 NLC university scholarship students, 19 NLC... more -
January 28, 2011 - Journal
The Things We Carry
by Jim Kelsey
The Things We Carry Pastor Phillip called to tell me that he and his wife, Effie, and their 2 children are moving to Britain. (He bec... more -
January 27, 2011 - Journal
Celebrations...!
by Karen Smith
January 27th, 2011 Dear Friends, I write to share many of the wonderful things happening at the New Life Center Foundation over the past few weeks, a... more -
January 20, 2011 - Journal
The Most Difficult Journey...
by Lauran Bethell
There are some trips that I make that I can’t write too much about on-line. One such recent trip was to a small country somewhere bet... more -
January 19, 2011 - Journal
Pilgrimage:Hong Kong-The Journey’s Beginning
by Lauran Bethell
Pilgrimage: Hong Kong--The Journey's Beginning Please indulge me: I didn’t finish the “Pilgrimage” sto... more -
January 18, 2011 - Journal
Way More Than I Could Envision!
by Lauran Bethell
Way More Than I Could Envision! There is a flood of young women from Eastern Europe who are coming to work in prostitution in Western... more -
January 07, 2011 - Journal
Not Alone on the Streets
by Debbie Kelsey
When the two women turn around, I see that one of them could pass for my younger sister. She is about my height. She has straight brown hai... more -
December 23, 2010 - Journal
The Inconvenience of Love
by Annie Dieselberg
“I want to be hugged just like those bar girls. Can I come see you?” The voice on the phone was desperate. I was getting ready for work and to be h... more -
December 08, 2010 - Journal
Pray for Annie and Jeff Dieselberg
by Bob Santilli
Annie writes: At the end of October the NightLight church enjoyed an incredible retreat. 3 women were baptized as well as the 15 year old son o... more -
November 30, 2010 - Journal
The Healing Influence of Scarcity on People Who Live with Abundance
by Jim Kelsey
The Healing Influence of Scarcity on People Who Live with AbundanceThree things recently came together in my life, and they gave me a perspective often... more -
November 17, 2010 - Journal
A Half Baked Sermon - A Hole In The Darkness
by Debbie Kelsey
A Half Baked Sermon - A Hole In The DarknessThe Baptist Church of Rovigo chooses to welcome people on the margins: people with mental health issu... more -
November 09, 2010 - Journal
The "Friending" Phenomenon
by Kit Ripley
The "Friending" Phenomenon "Consider the Facebook phenomenon. People want to connect with others, even if it’s just to share a quick th... more -
November 07, 2010 - Journal
Drum Roll Please!
by Debbie Kelsey
Drum roll, please! The Extra Lift Matching Fund campaign report is: Yes! We’ve been lifted! Before: There ... more -
November 02, 2010 - Journal
The Long Train to Moldova
by Terry Myers
ESCAPE 2010“He heals the heartbroken and bandages their wounds…God puts the fallen on their feet again and pushes the wicked into the ditch.”Psal... more -
November 01, 2010 - Journal
US Consul General visits New Life Center
by Karen Smith
21 October, 2010 Dear Friends, First of all, I’d like to thank you for praying for me and the NLCF staff as we went through the process of our stra... more -
October 28, 2010 - Journal
Dangerous Terrain
by Jim Kelsey
Dangerous TerrainI looked out at the people gathered before me; they had grown silent, waiting for me to begin to speak. I realized that I was ab... more -
October 26, 2010 - Journal
Back to School
by Terry Myers
September 15 marks the beginning date for all Bulgarian public schools. Makes no difference what day of the week this falls on; school always beg... more -
October 23, 2010 - Journal
Issan: Birthplace of Daughters, Supplier for Prostitution
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear Friends, We just returned from a great trip to the Northeast of Thailand. I hope you will be inspired by what God is doing.Issan, The SourceThe gr... more -
October 18, 2010 - Journal
I Wish We Could Just Stop...
by Jim Kelsey
We were half way from the car to the door when we were stopped by our friend. She was standing there with a Nigerian man whom we did not kn... more -
October 13, 2010 - Journal
I Wish We Could Stop . . .
by Jim Kelsey
I Wish We Could Stop Talking about Documents and Just Praise the LordWe were half way from the car to the door when we were stopped by our friend. ... more -
October 05, 2010 - Journal
All In A Week’s Work
by Debbie Kelsey
All in a Week’s Work It is good to settle into a “normal” week of work again, and it is refreshing to do the work having talk... more -
September 26, 2010 - Journal
Pilgrimage: "Home" to Chiang Mai!
by Lauran Bethell
PILGRIMAGE: “Home” to Chiang Mai I was crazy to have planned to be in northern Thailand for only 5 days. I don’t know ... more -
September 20, 2010 - Journal
The Gift of Sending
by Debbie Kelsey
The Gift of Sending… “I could never do what you do,” the woman said to me after I shared in her church about our mission work with African i... more -
September 14, 2010 - Journal
Blessings...!
by Karen Smith
Dear Friends, It’s a beautiful morning here in Chiang Mai. The rains have been heavy but have tapered off in the past few days; the sky is a mottled... more -
September 14, 2010 - Journal
Lost Boy Ayumi (Part 2)
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear Friends, This is part 2 of "Ayumi's" story. (Part 1 sent on Sept. 6, 2010). It is not an easy story with a quick "Happily Ever After Ending." ... more -
September 09, 2010 - Journal
Pilgrimage: Joyous Bangkok Reunions!
by Lauran Bethell
Pilgrimage: Joyous Bangkok Reunions!!! #1 She calls me “Mom”—“Sue” hardly remembers her own family. She was trafficked into ... more -
September 08, 2010 - Journal
Pilgrimage: Bangkok
by Lauran Bethell
Bangkok, September, 2010 The smells are the same—but not. In March, 1986 when I arrived in Thailand to begin language school and my missionar... more -
September 06, 2010 - Journal
Pilgrimage
by Lauran Bethell
Pilgrimage… Dear Friends, In a few hours I’m getting on (yet another) plane from Amsterdam on my way to Thailand! You can imagine my excite... more -
September 06, 2010 - Journal
Lost Boy Ayumi (Part 1)
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear Friends, I invite you to read the following journal about a 14-year-old boy transvestite we have been trying to help the last few months. I share ... more -
September 04, 2010 - Journal
Back Home Again
by Tom Myers, Terry Myers
BACK HOME AGAINAfter A.J. and Nathan wrapped up their school year in Fort Collins, Colorado at the end of May, we spent a few weeks visiting family and... more -
August 26, 2010 - Journal
57 Ones of You!
by Debbie Kelsey
57 Ones of You! Thank you! We are up to 57 “Ones” of you who, with Jim and me, financially support our mission work with immigrants and ... more -
August 25, 2010 - Journal
Let My People Go!
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear Friends, "Let my people go! Release the captives!" The photo of Phillip dancing in front of Pharaoh's bar a few years ago called me to pray. His ... more -
August 21, 2010 - Journal
Angels seen during prayer at NightLight!
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear Friends, It was hard for me to leave NightLight for 8 weeks and to trust everything to God. I have an amazing team, but we were leaving so many he... more -
August 14, 2010 - Journal
Unmatchable - Matchable
by Debbie Kelsey
Unmatchable News from Emma - - - Unmatchable Biscotti in Quincy - - - Matchable Monthly Gifts Totaling $1302 Needed Emma sent us a messa... more -
July 27, 2010 - Journal
Journeys…Gypsies and Us
by Debbie Kelsey
Journeys…Gypsies and Us In the week or so prior to our departure for a couple of months in the US, I had the great joy of participating in the “Ca... more -
July 26, 2010 - Journal
You Know You Are Loved When…
by Kit Ripley
You Know You Are Loved When… Everyone has their own “language of love”…ways that we show our care and concern for others. ... more -
July 16, 2010 - Journal
Blueberries & Spaghetti: Do They Go Together?
by Debbie Kelsey, Jim Kelsey
What do blueberries and spaghetti have in common? They both fund ministry in Italy! We arrived in Georgia to visit with Debbie’s family a... more -
July 12, 2010 - Article
On Location -- Spring 2010
Below is the link to the PDF of the International Ministries newsletter, On Location, which is published quarterly. When clicked on, the PDF provides... more -
June 29, 2010 - Journal
NightLight Praise and Prayer Update
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear Friends, Thank you so much for your continual prayers and words of encouragement. It has been a trying season but we have felt God's presence and ... more -
June 01, 2010 - Journal
Political conflicts, exploitation, and....hope!
by Karen Smith
Dear Friends, First, I write to thank you for your prayers and support over these past few months of political turmoil here in Thailand. Some of you ... more -
June 01, 2010 - Journal
Kelseys’ Heads in the Cloud of Witnesses
by Debbie Kelsey
We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses! On Thursday and Friday, seven witnesses took part in the European Baptist Federation anti-traff... more -
June 01, 2010 - News
Footsteps in Africa
by Karen Mason
Today’s missionaries are following in the footsteps of hundreds of American Baptist missionaries with innovative ministries. International Mini... more -
May 20, 2010 - Journal
Bangkok the Morning After
by Annie Dieselberg
Thank you so much for your prayers and messages of encouragement. To know that we are covered in prayer is a great reassurance when the sound o... more -
May 20, 2010 - Journal
Thailand in Need of Prayer
by Kit Ripley
Many friends have inquired about the political situation in Thailand at this time. This is a very cursory summary, as far as I understand it:&n... more -
May 19, 2010 - Journal
May 19 Bangkok Update
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear Friends, I woke up this morning to the sound of helicopters and explosions. I've been wanting to write an update on the situation in Bangkok for d... more -
April 25, 2010 - Journal
The Girl Effect
by Kit Ripley
Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide by Pulitzer Prize winning New York Times journalists, Nicholas D. Kristo... more -
April 14, 2010 - Journal
Creating a Future
by Terry Myers
Statistics say that some 10,000 Bulgarian women are trafficked each year out of the country, most to Western Europe, the Middle East, Latin America and... more -
April 01, 2010 - Journal
Covenants, Curses, and the Cross
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear friends, Recently the Red Shirts made headline news, cursing their government through a ritual involving the shedding of blood. It was an extreme ... more -
February 07, 2010 - Journal
Lauran Bethell’s Thoughts on Homeless Children and Trafficking in Haiti
by Lauran Bethell
Dear Friends,My heart has been broken watching the scenes of devastation in this country that has already suffered so much. Because of my heighte... more -
February 06, 2010 - Journal
Love Potions, Spells and a Revolution
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear friends, Valentine's Day unites the world in a theme of love. Everyone desires true love but in spite of all the advertising, the gifts, the parti... more -
January 09, 2010 - Journal
A New Year
by Terry Myers
As the snow is falling outside our window here in Colorado to welcome in 2010, we are thinking about the New Year ahead of us, and what it will bring.&... more -
December 22, 2009 - Journal
Best Christmas Gift
by Kit Ripley
The Best Christmas Gift Dear Friends, December is the best time of year to be in Chiang Mai. The month starts with a holiday f... more -
December 21, 2009 - Journal
Some Rejected the Gift, but To Those Who Received . . .
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear friends, I never thought that giving a gift could be so difficult. Our outreach team planned to bless the women in prostitution with earrings made... more -
December 09, 2009 - Journal
Pray for Karen Smith
by Bob Santilli
Karen serves at the New Life Center Foundation (NLCF), an evangelical ministry located in Northern Thailand. NLCF works exclusively with ethnic minor... more -
December 07, 2009 - Journal
"Showing Up"... Because???
by Lauran Bethell
We didn’t know who or how many would come to the meeting. We had the barest outline of a program. We had no way of predicting what would ... more -
December 04, 2009 - Journal
December 4th, 2009
by Karen Smith
Dear Friends, I'm writing this from my desk at the New Life Center Foundation, late on a beautiful December afternoon. At this time of year,... more -
December 02, 2009 - Journal
Pray for Debbie and Jim Kelsey
by Bob Santilli
Debbie and Jim assist the Evangelical Christian Baptist Union of Italy in ministry to English-speaking immigrant, particularly African, congregations... more -
November 25, 2009 - Journal
"Thanks for Letting Me Bring My Beer Into Church, Man!"
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear friends, Gratitude is expressed in many ways. Sometimes we are unaware of the seemingly small gestures that can have a big impact. The following j... more -
November 23, 2009 - Journal
FOILED AGAIN!
by Kit Ripley
Dear Friends, After five long months of travelling and speaking in the US, I was excited to be returning home to Thailand. I checked and recheck... more -
November 02, 2009 - Journal
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases...!
by Karen Smith
Hi, Everyone! I wrote this message two weeks ago, but due to some internet connection problems, have not been able to send it until today. Her... more -
October 12, 2009 - Journal
In Opposition to Human Trafficking
by Kit Ripley
Dear Friend, Hello! I am so excited to be able to experience autumn this year. It’s my favorite season. I have been in the... more -
September 23, 2009 - Journal
Pray for Kim Brown
by Bob Santilli
Kim’s work includes overseeing five Christ-like ministries for tribal people who are coping with the problems caused by AIDS, disabilities, a... more -
September 22, 2009 - Journal
Divine Encounter Part 3: Captives of the Show Bar
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear Friends, "I Believe in God now," "One" said to me this week on a bar visit. I read the tract you left me and I cried and cried. I wrote about "One... more -
September 16, 2009 - Journal
Divine Encounter Part 2: "Tom" the LadyBoy
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear Friends, NightLight's focus has always been on helping women who have been exploited in the sex industry of Thailand. The number of men who are ex... more -
September 15, 2009 - Journal
God at Work: Keeping me from despair
by Lauran Bethell
Note: On Sept. 1, I committed myself to write a journal entry every day until Sept. 18th. After that date, I will try to write 1-2 per mont... more -
September 11, 2009 - Journal
Maggi’s Musings
by Lauran Bethell
Note: Maggi Susman, from Denver, CO, is volunteering for me here in The Netherlands for 3 weeks--helping me with administrative tasks. She ... more -
September 10, 2009 - Journal
God at Work: In Serendipitous Gatherings
by Lauran Bethell
Tonight I had a meeting in the red-light district with a journalist from Eastern Europe. He wanted one question answered from me: Why are t... more -
September 09, 2009 - Journal
Conflicted Feelings
by Jim Kelsey
On Sunday I continued my sermon series from Isaiah chapters 40-55 in our Nigerian church in Verona. We investigated further the similari... more -
September 09, 2009 - Journal
A True Congolese Welcome
by Jill Lowery
A True Congolese Welcome I think that no matter how long I stay here, I will never get used to the kind of unashamed enthusiasm that Congolese people s... more -
September 09, 2009 - Journal
Pray for Lauran Bethell
by Bob Santilli
Lauran is a global consultant and has been working for more than two decades on behalf of and caring for women who have been exploited and abus... more -
September 09, 2009 - Journal
God at Work: In ways I can’t talk about here...
by Lauran Bethell
I wish that you could come join me in my apartment for a meal--or many!--so that we could talk face to face. Then you could experience my home as... more -
September 08, 2009 - Journal
God at Work: In "Massage Parlors"
by Lauran Bethell
Today I spent the afternoon visiting Thai “massage parlors” in a city near-by my home. It’s obvious that massage is only part of the treatm... more -
September 06, 2009 - Journal
God at Work: In Government
by Lauran Bethell
God at Work: In GovernmentsDay 6 of 18 journal entries in a row!I’m often surprised where I find myself. Though I’d be happy if God had... more -
September 05, 2009 - Journal
God at Work: The Movement
by Lauran Bethell
Preface: If you read my journal on September 1, you found out that I am sending one entry a day for the first 18 days of the month. Hopeful... more -
September 05, 2009 - Journal
Divine Encounter Part I
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear friends, Twice a week, the outreach team heads to the red-light area to meet what we call divine appointments. The following is Part I of an outre... more -
September 04, 2009 - Journal
God at Work: Baptist World Alliance (BWA)
by Lauran Bethell
Immediately after the European Baptist’s Amsterdam400 celebration in late July, the Baptist World Alliance held their Annual Gathering in The Netherl... more -
September 02, 2009 - Journal
Let’s Celebrate
by Lauran Bethell
Let’s Celebrate!We’re celebrating our 400th birthday! Yes! A group of dedicated Believers in Christ decided that they were Baptists 400... more -
September 01, 2009 - Journal
Pray for Annie and Jeff Dieselberg
by Bob Santilli
Annie works with NightLight Design Co. Ltd., a business-as-mission, which employs and empowers women affected by the sex trade in Bangkok, Thail... more -
September 01, 2009 - Journal
God at Work
by Lauran Bethell
God at WorkA confession: I get overwhelmed with life. These last numbers of months (years!) I’ve had the incredible privilege of seeing G... more -
August 31, 2009 - Journal
Difficult comparaison
by Nzunga Mabudiga
Dear Loved Ones, May the peace of our Risen Lord be with each one of you. This week a man who had a cataract operation in his left eye at our cli... more -
August 29, 2009 - Journal
We Have Arrived
by Jill Lowery
We Have Arrived – Sort Of...Dear Friends and Family,We are happy to say that we have indeed arrived in Congo. We had an amazingly smooth trip over an... more -
August 27, 2009 - Journal
NightLight News - August 2009
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear friends, The past month has been a roller coaster of highs and lows. We've had the the thrill of another rescue, deliverance, and a new website la... more -
August 25, 2009 - Journal
A Simple Demonstration of Love
by Kara Miller
A few weeks ago, I had the wonderful and rare opportunity to spend the weekend at our girls ranch. Seven visiting American girls and I packed ... more -
August 19, 2009 - Journal
Preaching to Exiles
by Jim Kelsey
Elder Victor Omeregie is returning to Nigeria for 6 weeks to rebuild his mother’s dilapidated house. He has entrusted his congregation and the ... more -
August 19, 2009 - Journal
Pray for Karen Smith
by Bob Santilli
Karen serves at the New Life Center Foundation (NLCF), an evangelical ministry located in Northern Thailand. NLCF works exclusively with ethnic ... more -
August 17, 2009 - Journal
Hebron Baptist Church support kid to kid goat project in Haiti
by Nzunga Mabudiga
Dear Loved ones, Greeting from Salem, Indiana. After a week of mission conference on the beautiful campus of Eastern University where we had t... more -
August 11, 2009 - Journal
Returned to Thailand
by Karen Smith
Dear Friends, After living and working in the United States for the past 13 months, I recently returned to Thai... more -
August 09, 2009 - Journal
1440 Minutes of Darkness and A Moment of Light
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear friends,"For every day that our work is delayed, a woman, child or juvenile is forced to suffer in the chain of human trafficking for an add... more -
August 04, 2009 - Journal
Greeting from Saint David, PA
by Nzunga Mabudiga
Dear Loved Ones,Greetings. We praise God for the privilege He has given us to travel to the States to do our deputation. The staff of our mission... more -
August 04, 2009 - Journal
Here We Go !
by Mike Lowery
Well, we are finally on our way back to Congo. We have passed physicals, endured numerous injections, reserved our seats and have been given the green ... more -
July 31, 2009 - Journal
Kind People Who Want to Change People’s Lives
by Debbie Kelsey
I called Victoria to let her know that Joann contacted me twice in the last week. You will remember that Joann left prostitution after being badl... more -
July 30, 2009 - Journal
Deputation year
by Kihomi Ngwemi, Nzunga Mabudiga
Dear Loved Ones, Greeting in the name of our Lord. We are now in Gilbert, Arizona where we will reside for this deputation year. We are pr... more -
July 08, 2009 - Journal
God Has Not Given Us a Spirit of Fear...
by Debbie Kelsey
“For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 Taking the train to accompany Emma to he... more -
July 08, 2009 - Journal
Pray for Debbie and Jim Kelsey
by Bob Santilli
Debbie and Jim assist the Evangelical Christian Baptist Union of Italy in ministry to English-speaking immigrant, particularly African, congr... more -
June 24, 2009 - Journal
Pray for Annie and Jeff Dieselberg
by Bob Santilli
Annie works with NightLight Design Co. Ltd., a business-as-mission, which employs and empowers women affected by the sex trade in Bangkok. Jef... more -
June 11, 2009 - Journal
Reflections on "Showing Up"
by Lauran Bethell
When I'm home in Holland, I volunteer with a Dutch Christian organization which is meeting women in prostitution in the legalized red-light districts i... more -
June 10, 2009 - Journal
One More Step
by Debbie Kelsey
Jim got home today and had a great time in Vietnam. That’s good news, but more on that later...The other great news is: Two weeks ago, t... more -
June 10, 2009 - Journal
Pray for Lauran Bethell
by Bob Santilli
Lauran has been working for more than two decades on behalf of and caring for women who have been exploited and abused. Most recently, sh... more -
June 09, 2009 - Journal
The Experiment...
by Lauran Bethell
Ok.... I think I can do it... not being a 20- or 30-something year old who has computer and software technology in her DNA, I have made several attempt... more -
April 22, 2009 - Journal
Pray for Debbie and Jim Kelsey
by Bob Santilli
Debbie and Jim assist the Evangelical Christian Baptist Union of Italy in ministry to English-speaking immigrant, particularly African, congregations.... more -
April 17, 2009 - Journal
Eggs and Baskets
by Debbie Kelsey
Eggs and baskets have been a hot topic lately. Joann, a young African woman, put all her eggs in an “Italy” basket. A woman she met brought her to ... more -
March 23, 2009 - Journal
Picking Favorites
by Kit Ripley
Dear Friends, Teachers and missionaries are forbidden from picking favorites. And truly, I do love and treasure each of our girls at the New Lif... more -
March 08, 2009 - Journal
Candid Conversations across the Table
by Debbie Kelsey
Last week, Emma looked timidly across the table in the train station while Jim stood in line to buy each of us a hamburger for lunch. She said, ... more -
February 23, 2009 - Journal
Annie and Jeff Dieselberg
by Bob Santilli
Annie works with NightLight Design Co. Ltd., a business-as-mission, which employs and empowers women affected by the sex trade in Bangkok. Jeff teaches... more -
February 15, 2009 - Journal
It’s going to be a wild ride!
by Annie Dieselberg
This year seeems to have begun with bad news from around the globe. It can be really discouraging. However, there is more to the story than we re... more -
February 12, 2009 - Journal
Debbie and Jim Kelsey
by Bob Santilli
Debbie and Jim assist the Evangelical Christian Baptist Union of Italy in ministry to English-speaking immigrant, particularly Afri... more -
February 12, 2009 - Journal
IM Volunteer Susan Omanson
by Bob Santilli
Susan who is serving as a volunteer with Nightlight in Bangkok Thailand, is wrapping up her time at Nightlight shortly. Before she ... more -
January 29, 2009 - Journal
Happy New Year, Happy New Year, Happy New Year!
by Kim Brown
Happy New Year! In Thailand, we actually celebrate three new years -- the western one in January, the Chinese New Year about a month later, and t... more -
January 21, 2009 - Journal
Kim Brown
by Bob Santilli
Kim's work in Thailand includes overseeing Christ-like ministries for tribal people who are coping with the problems caused by AIDS, disabilities, and ... more -
January 14, 2009 - Journal
Daniel and Sarah Chetti
by Bob Santilli
Dan and Sarah serve in Beirut, Lebanon at the Arab Baptist Theological Seminary (ABTS). They are the first International Ministries missionaries in Leb... more -
January 08, 2009 - News
State Department leader talks to American Baptists for Human Trafficking Awareness Day
In an effort to promote Human Trafficking Awareness Day, which is Sunday Jan. 11, American Baptists on Thursday, Jan 8, hosted Laura ... more -
December 26, 2008 - Journal
Second Annual Human Trafficking Awareness Day
by Susan Linderman
I saw the tears of the oppressed,and they have no comforter;power was on the side of their oppressors,and they have no comforter.Ecc. 4:1Dear Friends,O... more -
December 22, 2008 - Journal
Annie and Jeff Dieselberg, Thailand
by Bob Santilli
Annie works with NightLight Design Co. Ltd., a business-as-mission, which employs and empowers women affected by the sex trade in Bangkok. Jeff teaches... more -
December 19, 2008 - Journal
Preparing to leave the mission field
by Susan Linderman
Dear Friends,I wanted to send out this letter to keep you up to date on what has been happening. I’m back in the States now and am with my family in ... more -
November 19, 2008 - Journal
A passionate praise
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear Friends, The woman who washed Jesus' feet with her tears understood what it meant to be forgiven and delivered. While others, more religious,... more -
November 17, 2008 - Journal
Update on Emma
by Debbie Kelsey
It was a different day, and there were different guards behind the window at the Center for Deportation and Expulsion. Despite lots of smiling an... more -
November 12, 2008 - Journal
Rise up -- a story of hope and transformation
by Kim Brown
Volunteers are a wonderful part of each of our projects, and I am grateful for the many ways the ethnic minorities are served by this group, incl... more -
November 05, 2008 - Journal
Debbie and Jim Kelsey
by Bob Santilli
Debbie and Jim assist the Evangelical Christian Baptist Union of Italy in ministry to English-speaking immigrant, particularly African, congregations. ... more -
November 02, 2008 - Journal
Wherever She Is
by Debbie Kelsey
Less than 3 weeks ago, Emma was sitting in the front row of the church, listening to women on a mission team as they shared how God had brought t... more -
October 30, 2008 - Journal
Risky Hospitality
by Mylinda Baits
“Talk and act like a person expecting to be judged by the Rule that sets us free. For if you refuse to act kindly, you can hardly expect to b... more -
October 21, 2008 - Journal
Sufficiency Economy
by Kit Ripley
The Royal Anti-Greed Campaign For 10 years, the King of Thailand has promoted a philosophical model throughout the country called the “Sufficiency... more -
October 17, 2008 - Journal
God’s People Speak of Hope and Freedom
by Debbie Kelsey
HOPE: “I have had hard times, but God has brought me to a better time.” “You might feel like you are in this alone, but you are nev... more -
October 14, 2008 - Journal
Annie and Jeff Dieselberg
by Bob Santilli
Annie and Jeff Dieselberg serve in Bangkok, Thailand, a bustling metropolis of more than 10 million people. Annie works with NightLight Design Co. Ltd.... more -
October 09, 2008 - Journal
Praying in challenging times
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear Friends,At a time when it feels like the world is in chaos we are so grateful for the prayers that you send which sustain us, protect us, gu... more -
September 30, 2008 - News
New Life Center featured on PBS television program
Nationally acclaimed PBS television program, Religion & Ethics Newsweekly, recently featured the ministry of the New Life Center Foundation i... more -
September 17, 2008 - Journal
God gave me a new mother and a new home
by Kim Brown
Da came to the House of Love with her mother when she was only eleven months old. She was conceived in a brothel. She did not know th... more -
September 17, 2008 - Journal
God is doing the impossible
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear Friends,We have exciting news to share that is a miraculous answer to prayer and a picture of God's heart for those affected by the sex industry. ... more -
September 03, 2008 - Journal
Strangers: God’s Kind of People
by Debbie Kelsey
Good news for those who worry about the safety of your missionaries! The military was sent into Padua last month to round up ... more -
August 13, 2008 - Journal
Annie and Jeff Dieselberg
by Bob Santilli
Annie and Jeff serve in Bangkok, a bustling metropolis of more than 10 million people. Annie works with NightLight Design Co. Ltd., a business-... more -
August 13, 2008 - Journal
Arrested by God’s artwork
by Kit Ripley
Dear Friend, This week there was a double rainbow over Chiang Mai. It stretched in a great arc from one end of th... more -
August 12, 2008 - Journal
From shame to honor
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear friends,A Central Asian woman was rescued from forced prostitution a couple months ago and needed assistance in returning home. The response from ... more -
July 31, 2008 - Journal
One-year anniversary
by Debbie Kelsey
We celebrated our “one-year in Italy” anniversary in July. And, we are not strangers here anymore. We recognize people in our neighborh... more -
July 18, 2008 - Journal
Ordinary people plus God’s love equals transformed lives
by Kim Brown
I am always amazed by the way that God’s love, as shown through ordinary people, can transform lives. I am amazed that no one is ever invisible... more -
July 15, 2008 - Journal
Home with a view
by Corenne Garrison Smith
Alex, a graduate of the City of Youth, just can’t get away from Hope Unlimited! After settling into a great job as an industrial carpente... more -
June 25, 2008 - Journal
Church -- messy but real
by Annie Dieselberg
A miracle happened at church. It may have been missed behind all the pain and tears, but I saw a miracle. A man, a leader in the church, stood before t... more -
June 25, 2008 - Journal
We like to call them kingdom moments
by Gary Baits
We want to celebrate some of the ways we’ve seen God at work lately.• Jamie graduated from high school on June 11. She had ... more -
June 20, 2008 - Journal
Wedding encounter
by Philip Smith
Please pray for us this weekend, as we prepare for our first graduate marriage encounter. For a long time, I had been seeking a churc... more -
June 20, 2008 - Journal
Networking against human trafficking
by Terry Myers
“Catch the Vision, Offer Compassion, Continue to Persevere” was the theme of a May 8-11, 2008 conference in Amsterdam, Holland sponsored by t... more -
June 18, 2008 - Journal
Singing the Lord’s song in a foreign land
by Jim Kelsey
It was like raising the dimmer switch on a light. We moved in our worship from a song in English to a song in Igbo, one of the regional dialects ... more -
June 10, 2008 - Journal
God is my light and my salvation
by Sarah Chetti
Do not be afraid, I am your shield, a very great reward ... more -
June 02, 2008 - Journal
Design school dreamer
by Annie Dieselberg
I stood proudly and snapped a photo as I watched my daughter graduate on Saturday. She and some 60 other international students were graduating and all... more -
May 25, 2008 - Journal
Reflecting and reporting on the work of New Life
by Karen Smith
Dear Friends,I am preparing to leave Chiang Mai in late June to work in the United States for the upcoming 10 to 12 months. I’m looking forwa... more -
May 20, 2008 - Journal
Full speed ahead, in God’s own time
by Debbie Kelsey
I am ready! I have finished Italian classes, I have learned to use my GPS to get anywhere in Italy, and the world is my ministry oyster! Here a... more -
May 12, 2008 - Article
International Christian Conference on Prostitution
"Come to the Peace"September 7 - 12Human Trafficking is becoming one of the most lucrative businesses in the world surpassing drugs and t... more -
May 09, 2008 - Journal
Time of change and transition
by Kim Brown
May is a time of change and transition, as the Thai school year restarts. However, Daw Song, one of our girls from the House of Love, has ... more -
May 08, 2008 - Journal
Trials and triumphs at Nighlight
by Annie Dieselberg
Dear Friends,It's been a busy season and not an easy one. God is working in incredible ways and our days seem to be filled with the highest of jo... more -
April 30, 2008 - Journal
Pray for: Charles and Sarah West
by Bob Santilli
West_Family 2006.jpgPray for the Wests. Charles serves with the Baptist Convention of Zambia in the areas of educational ministries and leade... more -
April 15, 2008 - Journal
Seeing through dark glasses
by Debbie Kelsey
I think of her as “the woman behind the dark glasses.” She is not about to reveal much of herself to someone like me whom she only sees occasional... more -
April 15, 2008 - Journal
Beach vacation
by Kim Brown
I know snow is still falling in the US, but here in Thailand we are in the midst of our hottest season, and Thai summer means summer vacation for the c... more -
March 26, 2008 - Journal
Easter greetings from Nightlight
by Annie Dieselberg
Happy Easter from all of us at NightLight! "The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me. Because he has anointed me to preach good news... more -
March 26, 2008 - Journal
A long Holy Week
by Debbie Kelsey
The only thing I remember about Holy Week when I was a child is Easter Sunday: no Maundy Thursday, no Good Friday, no hopeless, nameless Saturda... more -
March 26, 2008 - Journal
Healing from the trauma of the past
by Kit Ripley
"An entire nation suffers from unresolved post-traumatic stress disorder. How will they ever recover from such a history?"Dear Friends,It was a ... more -
March 12, 2008 - Journal
Pray for: Susan Linderman, Bulgaria
by Bob Santilli
Susan Linderman PortraitSusan ministers to women and youth at risk of human trafficking in Bulgaria. There she works to ident... more -
March 12, 2008 - Journal
Pray for: David and Laura Parajon, Nicaragua
by Bob Santilli
Parajon_Family 2006.jpgSince 2001, David and Laura have been serving remote rural communities in Nicaragua through the training and support of ... more -
March 10, 2008 - Journal
Bea’s story
by Kim Brown
Our lives are woven into stories about how God works, and I thought you might be encouraged by the story of one of our children who was recently baptiz... more -
March 08, 2008 - Journal
Helping Manna
by Scott Coats
Hello Friends, It’s been a more than two months since you’ve heard from us. Sorry about that. I have set a goal for myself that we let you know how... more -
March 07, 2008 - Journal
Faithful Carriers
by Susan Linderman
Soon the house where Jesus was staying was so packed with visitors that there wasn’t room for one more person, not even outside the door. And he prea... more -
March 07, 2008 - Journal
God saves in spite of us, God saves through us
by Annie Dieselberg
God continuously moves to bring freedom and life to the oppressed. At NightLight we are always learning what it means to worship God in the Isaiah 58 w... more -
February 15, 2008 - Journal
The faces of poverty
by Jim Kelsey
The two young men sat at the table looking very cold and uncomfortable. They had their arms wrapped around their bodies, sitting very still. I knew b... more -
February 08, 2008 - News
American Baptist International Ministries celebrates New Baptist Covenant
The New Baptist Covenant meeting was a significant gathering, and leaders of American Baptist International Ministries said "what will co... more -
February 01, 2008 - Journal
Need your support for community center
by Daniel Schweissing
One of our primary objectives for 2008 is to set up a Christian community center in the McCollough Corner area of Nassau to house and oversee the vario... more -
January 30, 2008 - Journal
Women’s ministry in McCollough Corner
by Estela Schweissing
Happy New Year!Following a three week break for the holidays, my (Estela’s) ministry activities are back into full-swing.WOMEN’S MINISTRYDuring our... more -
January 13, 2008 - Journal
A new year in a new place
by Debbie Kelsey
As red and yellow and green and pink fireworks filled the sky around our house, we ran back and forth from the front terrace to the back terr... more -
January 12, 2008 - Journal
Back home in Thailand
by Kim Brown
The girls from the day care perform a special dance.• Christmas blessings: So many wonderful Christmas moments for the IMEM projects ... more -
December 25, 2007 - Journal
The New Life Center: Past, Present and Future
by Kit Ripley
Dear Friends, As the holidays approach, I am thinking of you, wondering what you are doing, what holiday parties and concerts are plan... more -
December 21, 2007 - Journal
Celebrating new life at advent
by Lauran Bethell
Recently, I returned home from an amazing journey to Southeast Asia. The original purpose was to attend the 20th Anniversary Celebration of the ... more -
December 21, 2007 - Journal
Happy Holidays from Night Light
by Annie Dieselberg
Happy holidays! As we close out 2007 and prepare for 2008, we would like to share with you some of NightLight's accomplishments and plans thro... more -
December 05, 2007 - Journal
Please continue to pray for Sasja
by Lauran Bethell
Many of you have heard me tell the story about Sasja, who was a victim of trafficking in Europe. Earlier this year, Sasja was diagnosed with leukemia,... more -
November 30, 2007 - Article
Bethell blessed to share stage with partner in Ethiopia
by Lauran Bethell
I was excited to go to Ethiopia to spend time with my IM colleagues and to be introduced to the wonderful Baptist family there, to witness God at work ... more -
November 30, 2007 - Article
MESSAGE FROM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR REID TRULSON
by Reid Trulson
Slavery has returned. Although every nation has banned it, slavery has returned in new forms of massive proportions. Meeting in Washington, D.C.... more -
November 30, 2007 - Article
MESSAGE FROM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR REID TRULSON
by Reid Trulson
To bring good news to the poor … to proclaim release to the captives … Luke 4:18 Abuk Bak was twelve years old when Arab militiamen from Nor... more -
November 30, 2007 - Journal
When two elephants fight
by Jim Kelsey
The Union of Christian Evangelical Baptists in Italy, our partnering group here, held a conference last week to study the work and wr... more -
November 26, 2007 - Journal
Same, same, but different
by Annie Dieselberg
Are you free?"Are you free?" An Arab man had just approached the table where I was in conversation wi... more -
September 20, 2007 - Journal
New Awards, Grants, Programs and Visitors for New Life Center
by Karen Smith
Dear Friends, The past few months have gone by in a blur! There is a LOT to tell you, so I'll just dive right in! Trip to Australia: This past July,... more -
September 14, 2007 - Journal
Fun with puzzles
by Debbie Kelsey
Every day in our new place, puzzles present themselves: -What is Italian for “I just spilled four liters of white paint on your st... more -
August 15, 2007 - Journal
Modern Nigerians in an Ancient Place
by Jim Kelsey
You turn off the main street and go down a gravel road that runs along a row of trees through a field, and then you turn through an opening in ... more -
July 31, 2007 - News
Board of International Ministries Passes Resolution Against Modern Slavery
The board of International Ministries (IM), American Baptist Churches USA unanimously passed a resolution against human trafficking at its summer... more -
July 26, 2007 - Journal
Closed Gates
by Jim Kelsey
The gate closed with a bang. It was the only opening in the stone wall that ran behind the central police station in Padua, Italy. Carmine, t... more -
June 25, 2007 - Journal
"You are Here"
by Jim Kelsey
I kissed Jim and Luke and Ben goodbye in the airport lobby on Tuesday and watched as they passed in sock feet through security. Loaded down wi... more -
May 16, 2007 - Journal
Bearing Much Fruit
by Karen Smith
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand (www.mfa.go.th) recently hosted a two day conference entitled “Friends of the Helsinki Process Worksh... more -
May 15, 2007 - Journal
The Next Journey Begins
by Jim Kelsey
The 1st grader who lived across the street from us announced that his family was moving to Florida. Several days later a large rental truck ba... more -
February 23, 2007 - News
INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES CELEBRATES 200th ANNIVERSARY OF END OF SLAVE TRADE
International Ministries (IM) of the American Baptist Churches USA has joined with many Christian groups and other organizations and governments to hai... more -
February 16, 2007 - Journal
The Time to Pray is Now
by Karen Smith
Dear Friends, Many of you may remember a significant "emergency case" resident of the New Life Center. Her name is "Wendy", and her story was high... more -
January 26, 2007 - Journal
Slavery: Not Then, But Now
by Jim Kelsey
Have you noticed one of the hot topics in the media these days?It's slavery.It is a topic in newspapers, on television news shows, and in museum disp... more -
December 21, 2006 - Journal
Christmas Greetings
by Jim Kelsey
It's four days before Christmas and we are all set. Only a couple of presents must be wrapped yet. We'll celebrate with Kelseys on Christmas Day... more -
November 07, 2006 - Journal
Italy, Here We Come!
by Jim Kelsey
It's official!Next summer we will move to Italy to assist the Evangelical Christian Baptist Union of Italy in ministry including pastoral and church ... more -
September 27, 2006 - Journal
We’re Back…Temporarily
by Jim Kelsey
We have Internet, phones, and trash pickup.Our kids have started school, and we know where the best prices on fresh vegetables are.So we are feeling ... more -
July 26, 2006 - Journal
Particular Challenges Facing Akha Women
by Karen Smith
Dear Friends, As you probably know, the New Life Center has been working with victims of human trafficking since its inception almost twenty years... more -
June 27, 2006 - News
IM EXPANDS MISSION TO WOMEN AND YOUTH WITH GLOBAL MINISTRY TO PROSTITUTES
When International Ministries (IM) launched Go Global -- its strategic plan for 2000 to 2010 -- one of its specific commitments was to renew and deepen... more -
May 31, 2006 - Journal
Thank You!
by Jim Kelsey
In this our last journal before we return for US/Puerto Rico assignment, we want to thank all of you for your love and support during our service her... more -
May 09, 2006 - News
“Living Hope” Inspires Attendees to Action
The International Christian Conference on Prostitution – Living Hope – attracted more than 200 ministry leaders from 36 countries to Green Lake, WI... more -
April 04, 2006 - Journal
Receiving More than You Give
by Jim Kelsey
I sat in the worship service feeling like a well-used dishrag. I had endured a very demanding week, and the coming week looked no better.The lay lead... more -
February 24, 2006 - Journal
Back to Nazareth
by Jim Kelsey
Earlier we wrote about a Romanian couple who came to Belgium in October thinking they could stay and work.They found they could not stay, and, while ... more -
February 03, 2006 - News
International Ministries Begins New Era of Missionary Appointments
Charles Jones, acting executive director of International Ministries, announced the appointment of Susan Linderman for missionary service, effective Fe... more -
February 01, 2006 - Journal
Trafficking of Eastern European Women to Bangkok
by Annie Dieselberg
"Women from Uzbekistan arrested." For years I have read headlines such as these in the Bangkok Post and been troubled by the increasing number... more -
November 21, 2005 - Journal
Happy Birthday, Pilgrim!
by Jim Kelsey
On Sunday, November 13, the Pilgrim International Baptist Church in Oostende, where Jim provides pastoral leadership, celebrated her 9th birthday.Wha... more -
October 12, 2005 - Journal
I’m Never Prepared for Neutrality
by Jim Kelsey
He volunteered:"My wife and I are not believers."We had been talking about America and Belgium, about the European Union and the economy, about socia... more -
September 28, 2005 - Journal
"Yes!"
by Jim Kelsey
I have to smile when it happens.One of Luke's or Ben's Dutch-speaking friends will score a point or win a game and yell "Yes!" like any good English-... more -
September 23, 2005 - Journal
Gifts
by Karen Smith
Dear Friends, At times, work at the New Life Center can feel overwhelming. Entrenched societal problems (poverty and corruption) coupled with cult... more -
August 30, 2005 - Journal
The Woman in the Window
by Jim Kelsey
As many of you know, I have been making weekly pastoral visits to the women in the Red Light District in Gent. A few visits ago, I took along ros... more -
July 05, 2005 - Journal
Three Continents and Two Islands
by Jim Kelsey
We sat around the table telling our stories.De Pelgrim Baptist Church, in Oostende, had decided to form small groups to deepen their fellowship and s... more -
June 06, 2005 - Journal
New Life Center’s Recent Involvements
by Karen Smith
Dear Friends of International Ministries, As I write this letter, it's a beautiful morning here in Chiang Mai. Rainy season started about four wee... more -
April 27, 2005 - Journal
Did You Bring A Bible?
by Jim Kelsey
Anita stood outside in her black leather dress and thigh-high black leather boots and stretched up with the paper towels trying to reach the smudges ... more -
March 10, 2005 - Journal
Did You Hear the News?
by Jim Kelsey
Mary Magdalene and the other Mary ran back into Jerusalem to tell Jesus' disciples the good news:"…He has been raised from the dead, and indeed he ... more -
February 04, 2005 - Journal
Intentional Contact
by Jim Kelsey
I had just attended a wedding—Belgian style.It involved two witnesses, two government officials, and, of course, a bride and groom.It took about te... more -
January 18, 2005 - Journal
The Everyday Things
by Jim Kelsey
I have never been a fan of the first two weeks of January.The Christmas festivities are past:Youth Party, Church-wide Christmas Program and Party, Bi... more -
December 14, 2004 - Journal
Hanging Tokens of a Shared Life
by Jim Kelsey
Yes, we have Christmas in Belgium.Indeed we have two guys who bring gifts to children.Sinterklaas comes on December 6 and leaves gifts.Then Santa Cla... more -
October 13, 2004 - Journal
Fall is in the Air
by Jim Kelsey
If Ohio's apple cider and apple doughnuts were not enough, seeing my breath in the bathroom this morning let me know that fall is here for sure.I am th... more -
October 13, 2004 - Journal
God Please Lead Us in Change
by Karen Smith
Dear Friends of International Ministries, The Lahu staff of the New Life Center (NLC) is on the brink of finishing a spectacularly successful projec... more -
September 20, 2004 - Journal
Among the Waves
by Jim Kelsey
As we walked onto the beach, the woman said:"Oh, don't let your kids go in the water.It is very dangerous to swim here.The undercurrent is very strong.... more -
July 28, 2004 - Journal
Baptism in a Swimming Pool
by Jim Kelsey
As Debbie and I planned our baptismal service, we consulted our Minister's Service Manual.It advised that: Every congregation should have a baptistery... more -
June 15, 2004 - Journal
Opportunities in the U.S. & Thailand
by Karen Smith
Dearest Friends, As I write this it's a rainy, humid morning in Chiang Mai. I have been back in Thailand for almost two months now…and re-engaging... more -
May 04, 2004 - Journal
The Devastation of War
by Jim Kelsey
Louie's flat-roofed brick row house looks solid enough, but it is slowly sinking into the ground.Built over a rubble-filled bomb crater, the house bear... more -
March 29, 2004 - Journal
What Can You Put In A Sack?
by Jim Kelsey
Carnaval was originally a religious holiday.It was one last party before the rigors and deprivations of Lent, a Belgian Mardi Gras.Now, in our communit... more -
March 01, 2004 - Journal
Maskers Af!-Masks Off!
by Jim Kelsey
Belgium's culture is full of traditions that originated in the Roman Catholic Church's observance of events in the church calendar.Carnaval, or Carniva... more -
January 30, 2004 - Journal
Beneath the Veneer
by Jim Kelsey
Someone gave one of the Baptist churches here some dining room furniture, a china cabinet and a sideboard.The church hopes to sell them and use the... more -
December 10, 2003 - Journal
Red Lights Not Associated With Reindeer
by Jim Kelsey
My friend Annick knows how to make me laugh at myself.She takes every opportunity to remind me how one day, while we were talking in the car, I dro... more -
November 17, 2003 - Journal
THE BAIT IS CUT…IT’S TIME TO FISH
by Jim Kelsey
There is a saying: It's time to fish or cut bait.There comes a time when we must stop preparing and start the task at hand.It is easy to continue p... more -
October 01, 2003 - Journal
WE PASSED LANGUAGE CLASSES!/WIJ ZIJN GESLAAGD!
by Jim Kelsey
The easy part is done; now the rubber meets the road…we put our new language to the test.On Friday night, we are hosting a celebration of the end... more -
August 26, 2003 - Journal
A Baptist Saint
by Jim Kelsey
Mona (rhymes with"Donna") was every bit of 4-1/2 feet tall.She was quiet, but vivacious!She was in love with a guy named Ralph.He and she were husband ... more -
July 29, 2003 - Journal
Small but Clear
by Jim Kelsey
Debra and James Kelsey My years of pastoring in America were punctuated each year with a Vacation Bible School.It wouldn't be summer without a week... more -
June 12, 2003 - Journal
What is a Vuurfeestje? Mystery Solved!
by Jim Kelsey
The much-anticipated Vuurfeestje "Fire Feast" is over.On Monday, June 9, which was a national holiday honoring Pentecost, church members in Melle a... more -
May 28, 2003 - Journal
Nurturing Shoots In The Field Of The Kingdom
by Jim Kelsey
One day Ben, our 7 year-old son, and I were talking about the worship service at our Baptist fellowship in Melle.In particular, Ben was talking abou... more -
April 15, 2003 - Journal
Excitement Is Mounting
by Jim Kelsey
Dear friends, An old-fashioned letter...well, almost.I wish I had time to write each of you a personal note, but we are blessed with so many wond... more -
March 31, 2003 - Journal
JIJ MOET KIEZEN
by Jim Kelsey
Annemie, our introductory Dutch teacher, said it at least five times each class: Jij moet kiezen (you must choose).Often, there is more than one way to... more -
February 10, 2003 - Journal
Anti-Trafficking Task Force
by Karen Smith
Dear Friends, One of the blessings of working at the New Life Center (NLC) is the fact that it is a well-established organization here in northern T... more -
February 04, 2003 - Journal
A Tof (Really Good) Day
by Jim Kelsey
God's presence is all around us.We see God's handiwork in the beauty of the rolling hills of western Belgium and in the sandy coast of the North Sea.We... more -
January 27, 2003 - Journal
2002 A Momentous Year
by Jim Kelsey
The beginning of 2003 found us settling down a bit after living in a whirlwind in 2002.Last year, we interviewed with International Ministries, were ap... more -
January 10, 2003 - Journal
Vacation Bible School and Retreat
by Karen Smith
Dear Friends, December is always a flurry of activity at the New Life Center. The residents continue to attend school, but all the tribal churches a... more -
December 19, 2002 - Journal
Churches Facing Challenge with Courage
by Jim Kelsey
Sinterklass is not Santa Claus.The Kerstman is Santa Claus.Are you confused?We were too.Sinterklaas is slender, carries a bishop's staff, wears a bisho... more -
November 15, 2002 - Journal
Language is a Door
by Jim Kelsey
For over two hours I listened to them talk and had no idea what they were saying. They could have been planning to invade France, and I would not have ... more -
October 14, 2002 - Journal
Identify God As The Source Of All Love
by Jim Kelsey
Jim, Luke, Ben and I have been in Belgium for about six weeks.We have worshipped with members of our new church on several occasions.We served Communio... more -
August 26, 2002 - Journal
Every New Day
by Karen Smith
"Every New Day" Dear Friends, There's a beautiful worship song that's been going through my mind over the past few months. It's called "Every New... more -
July 01, 2002 - Journal
Characterized by Promise
by Jim Kelsey
Greetings to you our first-time readers.Of course, since this is our first journal entry, you are all first-time readers. Our house is sold, as is o... more -
April 10, 2002 - Journal
The Faith of a Child (Louise)
In February I was visiting at an orphanage run by a Christian mission.I was drawing with a little girl.I asked her about her friends in her first... more -
March 06, 2002 - Journal
Being Blessed
by Karen Smith
Dear Friends, As most of you are aware, the New Life Center (NLC) works with girls at risk, and those who have been trafficked and/or sold' pr... more -
January 22, 2002 - Journal
The Learning Continues
by Karen Smith
This past December marked the first full year of my ministry here at the New Life Center. As many of you know, a first-term missionary’s goals... more -
October 01, 2001 - Journal
A Home and a Family
by Karen Smith
A few weeks ago, I had the chance to talk with a New Life Center resident named AhBah. I had visited with her often before; she’s learning the guit... more






